Unusual scam making the rounds

[ryoungs]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

[Caymus]

Since messages are essential free, the scammers pick familiar companies. Eventually they will hook somebody. If you get an email you can "hover" over the address. Many times, it will have a "gmail" account. Multibillion million/billion $ companies do not use gmail.

[oldtimes]

By responding to the message you confirmed that it was a valid number and I am sure it has been sold many times over. You can contact your carrier but I doubt there is anything they can do.

[billethkid]

And....they are not that unusual.
I get several each week from alleged Costco, Sam's, Home Depot, Ace.......just like the many phony caller id's we all get on our phones.....these name brand "freebies" are out trolling for suckers.

If they are not in your contact list DO NOT ANSWER!

By email mail, text if they are offering something free....DO NOT RESPOND.

The scammers know seniors favorite word......FREE!!!!!!!!!!

_____________________________________________

:censored:

[Taltarzac725]

Thanks for the head's up.

[Keefelane66]

You probably got scammed by malware in ACE hardware Wi-Fi system searching for info on unsuspecting customers. Cell phones continually send out location signals whether your trying to place a call or not.

[retiredguy123]

I started turning on my "do not disturb" setting, with the exception for numbers in my contacts list. So, I only get calls and texts from numbers in my contacts. It works great except when someone you know calls who is not in your contacts.

[villagetinker]

OP, you should also be able to add the phone numbers to your blocked call list.

[retiredguy123]

OP, you should also be able to add the phone numbers to your blocked call list.
That only works when the scammer uses the same number when they call. But, most scammers will spoof a different number every time they call. The blocked call list is worthless against spoofers.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Nothing unusual about it. They are trying to get a bunch of different things from you. It looks like they succeeded with around half of those things, because you a) clicked the initial link b) clicked the next link c) confirmed that it really is you and that c1) you aren't an AI response system, d) that you have credit card numbers stored in your cell phone which could possibly be valid and e) that you will fall for these scams at least enough to get through a, b, c, c1, and d.

And now they can use that information for themselves, sending you cleverer and cleverer texts that look more and more official until you actually get suckered into an expensive scam, or sell that information to listing services that feed it to other scammers who will do it instead.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

first rule is never to engage scammers, as they note that you have engaged in the past. Never answer the phone from a number you don't know, they can leave a message. . . Second, with text messages, block number and delete text. Doesn't matter that they change numbers, they realize you block numbers, and don't respond. . . . . .

engaging just makes your life more noisy with more distractions

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

first rule is never to engage scammers, as they note that you have engaged in the past. Never answer the phone from a number you don't know, they can leave a message. . . Second, with text messages, block number and delete text. Doesn't matter that they change numbers, they realize you block numbers, and don't respond. . . . . .

engaging just makes your life more noisy with more distractions

They can spoof other numbers. I've had phone calls with caller ID saying it came from my own phone.

Some of them also use caller ID block. Unfortunately, so do a couple of my friends. So I have to answer the phone in case it's one of them.

[oneclickplus]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

Just a coincidence. I get those also and I never walk into ACE. They also send out crap about packages from UPS, Fedex ... IRS notices, etc. If they send out a million "your UPS package can't be delivered due to a bad address" they will make contact with a LOT of people expecting UPS packages. And some of those will fall for the scam ... as you did ... at least as far as you went..

[Priebehouse]

First clue should have been the tag line "ace" instead of "Ace". They will bug you 2-3 times per day for about 2 weeks, then back off to once a week to "confirm your purchase". They never got my card # but the contact sure does cause me to kick myself in the a$$ for falling for it. I get one every 10 days or so now. I tried everything to block it, but since it is waning in frequency, I assume it will stop. Annoying? Yes, but it now serves as a reminder that there are idiots our there just looking to suck information out of you. Don't let your guard down.

[JayDub]

I started to receive Emails that say no sender. Ace,Kohl’s and so on. You can’t block the sender because it has no sender. When you try to unsubscribe it just takes you to another sales pitch. I just move it to junk that’s about all you can do.

[airstreamingypsy]

I got 3 emails about my free ACE drill last week...... went to google, then gmail.... clicked on the emails and hit the exclamation symbol in the octagon. That marks it as spam and hopefully it's the end of it.

[msilagy]

Do people EVER learn?

[mlmarr]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

HAckers everywhere.. block the number from your phone/texting messages, you should have the option pop up when you delete the text .. . I do this with every call that is tella/scammer

[CoachKandSportsguy]

We just got a text with the typical your account is locked, blah, blah blah, and it had 20 consecutive phone numbers. To block the source number, you had to scroll to the bottom of the list. insta block and delete + report junk

just a first world issue

[JGibson]

Why in the world would you click the link now they have your IP address if you were home on Wifi.
Even if you weren't home they could of put Malware on your phone.

That's why I hate all these rewards programs that want all your personal information and then somehow gets sold.

[MrFlorida]

When I get a text or email saying I won something, or getting a free gift I just delete it. Nothing in life is free...

[Marathon Man]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

Never, never, never.

[Berwin]

Tanstaafl

[retiredguy123]

HAckers everywhere.. block the number from your phone/texting messages, you should have the option pop up when you delete the text .. . I do this with every call that is tella/scammer
I did that for while until I had blocked about 100 numbers, but it didn't seem to reduce the number of spam calls at all. The same people kept calling using a different caller ID. The only thing that worked was to keep my phone on "do not disturb", but to allow numbers in my contacts list to come through. The only issue is when someone calls that is not on my contacts list and they need to leave a message. My phone also has an option for "repeat callers" whereby, if someone calls 2 times within 15 minutes, the call will go through.

[oldtimes]

So, I only get calls and texts from numbers in my contacts. It works great except when someone you know calls who is not in your contacts.

And that is what voice mail is for :icon_wink: I do the same with my email. Only those from my contacts or safe list make it into my inbox. The rest go into junk which I review before I delete.

[gmracket]

I never open those emails. They do look interesting but when they have your information your done!

[nn0wheremann]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.
Try making the sender a listed contact and then blocking that contact. If you have AT&T, copy one of the offending texts, paste it into a text addressed to 7726 (SPAM) and AT&T will answer asking for the senders address or phone number. Copy and paste that into your reply. Also let the store know about this, they’re systems have obviously been compromised.

[RICH1]

YOU NEED TO CONTACT THE THREE CREDIT REPORTING AGENCIES and FREEZE your CREDIT! It’s FREE

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

And that is what voice mail is for :icon_wink: I do the same with my email. Only those from my contacts or safe list make it into my inbox. The rest go into junk which I review before I delete.

When my sister, parents, doctor, or spouse call me, it's because they need to speak with /me/ and not leave a message. The only time no one can reach me is at bedtime. That's when I shut my phone completely off.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Try making the sender a listed contact and then blocking that contact. If you have AT&T, copy one of the offending texts, paste it into a text addressed to 7726 (SPAM) and AT&T will answer asking for the senders address or phone number. Copy and paste that into your reply. Also let the store know about this, they’re systems have obviously been compromised.

It has little to do with the store's systems and more about the global GPS system and the location services in your cell phone. If you are at a place, and your location services are turned on, then the spammers know you were in that location.

They track locations, not store systems.

[Emkay56]

Next time you get a text, I think you can click on the 3 dots in the corner and there will be a choice to block that contact.
I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

[Bill14564]

When my sister, parents, doctor, or spouse call me, it's because they need to speak with /me/ and not leave a message. The only time no one can reach me is at bedtime. That's when I shut my phone completely off.

If you have the number for your sister, parents, doctor, or spouse in your contacts then your phone will ring. The only time it will not ring is if the number is not already in your contacts (and even then it will ring if you recently called that same number).

The only time I've had a problem with the "silence unknown callers" feature is when I call a main number for a business and the return call is from a cell phone or another line in the business. Since the number calling me isn't in my contacts and isn't the number I recently called it is directed to voicemail and I need to start over.

[tvbound]

Never, never, never.


"Never, never, never."



The absolute best advice.

Unfortunately however, the combination of human nature being curious and loving something that is supposed to be "free"...means the scam will work on a lot of people.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

If you have the number for your sister, parents, doctor, or spouse in your contacts then your phone will ring. The only time it will not ring is if the number is not already in your contacts (and even then it will ring if you recently called that same number).

The only time I've had a problem with the "silence unknown callers" feature is when I call a main number for a business and the return call is from a cell phone or another line in the business. Since the number calling me isn't in my contacts and isn't the number I recently called it is directed to voicemail and I need to start over.

My health insurance is FloridaBlue. They use remote employees with something similar to burner phones, each with unique phone numbers that aren't affiliated with FloridaBlue. So the caller ID on those comes in as unknown, just the phone number, mostly from a Florida area code (but not always).

MY phone number has a Connecticut area code. But there are only a few people in Connecticut that I have need to communicate with anymore, since I stopped living there three years ago and most of my friends live elsewhere now, with new phone numbers.

So if a call comes in from a Connecticut phone number and I don't recognize it, I don't take the call. There are a couple of other area codes I recognize as being spam, so I don't take those calls either. All the other ones that I don't recognize, I answer "Digame" (pronounced DEE-ga-Mey) which is Spanish for "Talk to me" and the common phone answering phrase if you're in Puerto Rico.

If it's someone who sincerely needs to speak with ME, personally, and not merely "potential victim #499723, then they'll identify themselves and ask for me by name. If not, their number gets blocked.

I don't engage in conversation with callers until I know they're people I /would/ have any reason to talk to. The guy from Pakistan who says my computer password is compromised and is about to be shut down - is not someone I /would/ have any reason to talk to.

[kendi]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

You say “hey, Ace Hardware?” Don’t understand why you trusted just because you like Ace. Did you think scammers can’t use the names of businesses you like?

[ThirdOfFive]

Caveat emptor. Always. Face it: we're targets.

Rules I follow:

I never answer any calls unless I recognize the number. On those I don't, I assume that the caller will leave a VM if important enough. If they don't the number is immediately relegated to the spam bin and all future calls from that number are blocked.

I NEVER click on email links. If the email looks legit, I will look up the company online and call their Customer Service number to verify (or not) the legitimacy of the original email.

If it looks (sounds) too good to be true, it probably is.

[retiredguy123]

I don't know why, but I can always tell when the caller is a computer voice, not a real person. I guess the scammers need to develop a more lifelike voice.

[seecapecod]

You probably got scammed by malware in ACE hardware Wi-Fi system searching for info on unsuspecting customers. Cell phones continually send out location signals whether your trying to place a call or not.

I was thinking it may be connected to Location Services- if that is turned off, are you better protected?

[Bill14564]

I was thinking it may be connected to Location Services- if that is turned off, are you better protected?

The call was probably completely random and it was just a coincidence that the OP had recently visited Ace hardware. I get these kinds of things all the time from stores I haven't visited and banks I don't have accounts at.

[OhioBuckeye]

Yea, I got the same exact one but the shipping cost was $12.95. To make a long story short I put the message in file 13. The sad thing is by looking (opening) at the message they knew they had a live person on the other end of the line. Now they’re still sending me deals & I’m still filing them under file 13. Thanks for sending your thoughts & how you handled it!

[MrFlorida]

YOU NEED TO CONTACT THE THREE CREDIT REPORTING AGENCIES and FREEZE your CREDIT! It’s FREE

Do this, great advice....

[geobar]

The only suggestion is to change your password in (Ace Hdw) if you do have an account with them.
.
That's a good one to keep a Cancelled Credit Card on file to use for scammers. Upon reply hopefully, you report them.




I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

[Lea N]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

Something similar happened to me a couple years ago, it wasn't ACE Hardware. However when I started getting texts and e-mails ACE Hardware was one of the many names that popped up. After ignoring them (never reading them) they eventually stopped. I don't remember how long but I'm going to guess at least 3 or 4 months. As for the e-mails I still get them. They go directly to my spam folder, every now and then one slips through but I just mark it as spam again.

[joelfmi]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.I just got one today about claiming to be the postal US service.

[ensurconnect@gmail.com]

Use MySudo and only give one of the numbers to vendors. Never reveal your real cell phone number. You can delete and recreate numbers every once in a while if you want without touching your real phone number. All numbers can receive texts. Can have different email addresses too which can be deleted and recreated once you are getting too much spam.

[Stu from NYC]

My favorite was the electric company that was stopping our service immediately with technician on the way to do it. Or social security.

Funny how they seem to have moved on from car warranties.

As a famous man once said aint no free lunch.

[BumpaOompa]

Scammers will always scam because the punishment if caught is not severe enough. They should cut of a hand when found guilty or face the same consequence as strong arm robbery which is what it is.

[bjansson]

There is nothing worse than spam callers. they disrupt business and rip off unsuspecting people. I was getting a LOT of them so I installed the robokiller app which seems to have helped and add your phone number to the National Do Not Call Registry. It take about a month to kick in but it helps too. And i do a lot of blocking.

Also whenever I get a call from one of these guys (that i accidently answered) I tell them I'm in the do not call registry and sometimes you can get them to take you off the 'list'.

Good luck!

[retiredguy123]

There is nothing worse than spam callers. they disrupt business and rip off unsuspecting people. I was getting a LOT of them so I installed the robokiller app which seems to have helped and add your phone number to the National Do Not Call Registry. It take about a month to kick in but it helps too. And i do a lot of blocking.

Also whenever I get a call from one of these guys (that i accidently answered) I tell them I'm in the do not call registry and sometimes you can get them to take you off the 'list'.

Good luck!
Your experience is totally different from mine. In my experience, the "do not call" list, spam blocker apps, and asking a scammer to remove your number from their list are all ineffective and a waste of time.

[LarryL]

tell your friends to leave a message.

[MerryAnn]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

Once you give your credit card information you give them permission to bill you. Sadly the credit card company can't stop it. Both my husband & I was burned. No more "free gifts " for us. I'm also interested in how to stop unwanted texts, wish I knew how.

[Bill14564]

Once you give your credit card information you give them permission to bill you. Sadly the credit card company can't stop it. Both my husband & I was burned. No more "free gifts " for us. I'm also interested in how to stop unwanted texts, wish I knew how.

On an iphone there is a way to send messages from unknown senders into a separate list so that you won't normally see them. It doesn't block the messages, it just hides them a little.

I have found that I get a number of automated texts for 2-factor authentication, confirmation of reservations, delivery receipts, etc. that would be filtered if I turned this feature on. I have left it off.

[Brynnie]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

I don’t know if there’s a way to stop these people because they spoof phone numbers and have an inexhaustible list at their disposal (I don’t know how they get them). However, you can block them from texting you by doing this: Click on their message, then, at the top of the message page is their phone number, with a tiny arrow (almost invisible) next to it. Click on that arrow, then click “info” on the following page. You will see at the bottom of the page a red message that says “block this number.” Click on that, and that particular phone number will be blocked from your phone. Trouble is, the scammers still have other numbers at their disposal. Still, you know how to block them now.

[tvbound]

Your experience is totally different from mine. In my experience, the "do not call" list, spam blocker apps, and asking a scammer to remove your number from their list are all ineffective and a waste of time.

That has been my experience also, as I've found that taking all those actions have been almost worthless. The only thing that truly works from bothering me, from a number not on my contacts list, is to simply let it go to voice mail. If it's legitimate and they leave a message, I'll call them back. If it's from an unknown caller though, usually they don't leave a message...which I consider a win-win. lol

[Caymus]

Once you give your credit card information you give them permission to bill you. Sadly the credit card company can't stop it. Both my husband & I was burned. No more "free gifts " for us. I'm also interested in how to stop unwanted texts, wish I knew how.


You sure about that? You can dispute charges on credit cards. Credit cards offer much more protection than debit cards, Zelle, Venmo etc.

[mikempp]

If you hit reply to the email, you can see the email was sent by someone not affiliated with the company they claim to be. If I do get an email that looks legitimate I never hit the link in the email, I’ll login to the company directly.

[DiandJay]

I believe that giving your phone number when asked for at the register (Bells, TJMaxx, etc) before processing your purchase adds to unwanted phone calls. The store offer you some minuscule savings, but get your number to track your purchases and perhaps sell your number. They’re not giving away anything for free. This increases the spam calls IMO

[retiredguy123]

I believe that giving your phone number when asked for at the register (Bells, TJMaxx, etc) before processing your purchase adds to unwanted phone calls. The store offer you some minuscule savings, but get your number to track your purchases and perhaps sell your number. They’re not giving away anything for free. This increases the spam calls IMO
I never provide my phone number to a store. Also, I read an article in the Wall Street Journal that you should not even give your zip code because they use it with you credit card number to develop information for marketing to you.

[chrisinva]

Thanks for informing us of your unfortunate experience. WE can learn from it. If I try to block text messages I figure the sender then knows they have connected with a human (me) & will send more texts using other phone #s & will sell my number to others. For me the best way to stop unwanted texts is to NOT block or respond in any way. It takes 3-6 months but eventually the sender stops. Sorry.

[coloniegal]

Also, if you have a paypal account check it often. I received a notice for over $500 requesting I approve a payment for bitcoins!!! You could tell it was from overseas. So many scams out there today.

[OhioBuckeye]

Good for you, your one of the smart ones!

[jimmy o]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.

Sorry this happened. To answer your question, you can load the app nomorobo. It stops robo calls pretty effectively. I got it when it was free, now I believe there is a small cost, but you can get free trial.

[Stu from NYC]

Also, if you have a paypal account check it often. I received a notice for over $500 requesting I approve a payment for bitcoins!!! You could tell it was from overseas. So many scams out there today.

I got that one also. Really looked legitimate but since I never placed that order knew it was hogwash and deleted it.

[jpvillager]

A. Don't answer if the no. is not in your contacts.
B. It's your phone you can do what you want.
C. Our message is " We are screening calls. Leave a message and we will call you back." Our kids thought we were inconsiderate. They don't any more.
D. For the one who's friends block their name and number, they created the situation, not you. They can leave a message.

[chrissy2231]

I went to ACE Hardware in Lady Lake last week. I like that store and the people in it. The next day I got a very professional looking message on my IPhone from ACE saying my name was selected to win a power drill. It looked really good, even though I would have to pay shipping, So, I clicked on the link in the message (I never do that but, hey, ACE Hardware?). The clicked-on link took me to another professional looking page where I was to claim my prize. I answered some innocuous questions (name, address, phone number), and then they asked me how I wanted to pay shipping (about $4.50). They had my three credit cards and PayPal listed, just as if I was buying from Amazon. But I had shut down one of those cards months ago. For fun, I clicked on that choice and sat back to see what would happen. In a few minutes "they" came back saying that credit card would not work, and would I please send them my social security number and bank account information so they could fix the card for me. Again, it looked very professional, but there was no way I was going to give information like that to strangers on the internet. Now, since then, I get dozens of text messages a day. I can tell they come from foreign countries because they use the +1 USA country code when they dial my number. Some of their messages are funny: The latest of these scam messages said that they could fix me so that I could "last" more than 10 minutes, and that my lady friend would really appreciate it. LOL
Now, there are two reasons for posting this thread. The first is to clue Talk of the Villages denizens into this scam. The second is to ask if anyone knows how to clear my phone so that these text messages stop.
i make them a contact; then block; then you can delete contact

[retiredguy123]

i make them a contact; then block; then you can delete contact
Blocking numbers is a futile effort. Most of them will just call you back using a different spoofed number. I blocked more than 100 numbers before I realized that I was wasting my time.

[Byte1]

Since I have an area code from another state, I know not to answer most spam calls with that area code. There is a problem with certain 8** numbers because some doctors or other businesses we use, have those area code numbers. When I get one like that, I answer with a single "hello" and wait. Many times, if it is a computer initiated call it will disconnect if they don't hear further voice. Some will connect with a recording and I will hang up. If a live person comes on, I either hang up or have a bit of fun. Sometimes I will continue to say "hello, hello, hello" while they are attempting to speak. They will say something like "can you hear me, ,,,hello" and eventually hang up. The other day, a foreign voice attempted to say "F*** YOU!" and then hang up. I enjoyed a good laugh. Since I have a different state area code, I can be bit more inventive. One girl asked me if I would like to sell my home. I told her "yes" and she got all excited and asked when someone could come out and look at it. I told her immediately and she said someone would come out tomorrow. I acted excited and said "GREAT! I'll look forward to it" and hung up. Didn't hear again from them. They may have gone to my old residence and been disappointed. Live callers are so much fun. Sometimes, I have asked the live ones for a phone number where I can call them back. When they ask me why, I tell them that I want to call them back when it is inconvenient for them like they are sitting down to eat a meal with their family or trying to sleep. Problem is that computers have done away with much of the "live calling." But, most of the time I just don't answer calls I don't recognize. Emails are the same. If I receive an offer that that's too good to be true, then I figure it's spam. If it is from a business I frequent, I don't use the email links, I just go to their website and log in to check out their email. Most of the time it's just spam. Everyone eventually slips and gets caught. Spam filters catch most of it, but some stuff gets through. They are very good at fooling folks, especially those that are trusting types.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

they are very good at fooling trusting types. . . if you are a trusting type, of which i am not, which one might be able to tell by reading my posts, then you need to have a trusted friend or relative who is not the trusting type, to check emails and texts before responding. . .

Note very seldom are there texts or emails which truly have to be answered immediately from commercial businesses. . .
they are just tactics to play on your emotions, so if you have any histrionic tendencies, also find a trusted person to review texts and emails, or set your phone up to bock any call not on your contacts lists to slow down your emotional response function.

we just blocked the source of a hack text with 20 phone numbers on it, so now we have to block some of the numbers on the phone list, but you have to be careful to check each number that its not a call back number for a validation code, etc

[MangiaMangia]

The first thing I do when I see any email from Amazon, Spectrum, Home Depot, JCPenney, and so on ~ CHECK THE EMAIL FROM WHERE IT COMES FROM. If the email from say, Kohls says <kohls-qhe_rer@lawhssm.com I KNOW that's a scammer. BTW, that's a true email address I got from a scammer. It should be something like "kohls@kohls .com

[mikeycereal]

Blocking numbers is a futile effort. Most of them will just call you back using a different spoofed number. I blocked more than 100 numbers before I realized that I was wasting my time.

Yeah tell me about it. I must've blocked at least that many political texts that came into my phone since around 2018... about one every few days, and I'm fortunate to have maybe as much as a week or so in between. They just send from another spoofed one. Seriously those should be illegal, especially after many attempted blocks. Don't know what else I could do other than file a complaint to who knows where.